Annual Celebrations and Festivals

Riverfest: Little Rock’s Largest Music Festival

Riverfest is the apex of Little Rock’s festival scene—a vibrant celebration of music and community that takes place annually along the banks of the Arkansas River. As the largest music festival in the city, it draws thousands of visitors with its eclectic mix of genres and performances by both local and nationally acclaimed artists. The festival usually occurs over Memorial Day weekend, transforming downtown Little Rock into an electrifying hub of activity.

Attendees can enjoy multiple stages featuring live music acts, ranging from rock, country, and blues to pop, hip-hop, and jazz. But Riverfest is more than just music; it offers an array of food vendors, art installations, and interactive activities for all ages. Families can explore the kid-friendly zone, which includes games, rides, and educational exhibits. The festival also prides itself on its spectacular firework display that lights up the river, offering a breathtaking conclusion to the eventful weekend.

Little Rock Film Festival: Celebrating Cinema

The Little Rock Film Festival is a significant event in the local cultural calendar, celebrating the art of filmmaking and storytelling. Spanning several days, typically in the spring, this festival has a reputation for showcasing a diverse range of films from Arkansas and around the world. It aims to provide a platform for independent filmmakers to share their work with audiences, industry professionals, and peers.

Patrons of the festival can expect a lineup that includes feature films, documentaries, short films, and student productions. In addition to screenings, the festival hosts panel discussions, Q&A sessions with filmmakers, and workshops on various aspects of filmmaking. The Little Rock Film Festival not only serves as a significant draw for film enthusiasts and filmmakers but also as a catalyst for discussions on the power and impact of cinema.

Arkansas State Fair: Tradition and Entertainment

The Arkansas State Fair is a cherished tradition that brings together elements of agriculture, entertainment, and family-friendly fun. Held every October at the Arkansas State Fairgrounds, the event spans ten days, offering an array of activities and attractions that appeal to a broad audience.

Fairgoers can wander through exhibits showcasing the state's rich agricultural heritage, including livestock competitions and farm produce displays. The fairgrounds also boast a midway filled with exciting rides, games, and food stands serving classic fair cuisine like corn dogs, funnel cakes, and freshly squeezed lemonade. Attendees can enjoy concerts by popular artists, ranging from country and rock to R&B, as part of the fair's live music lineup. With a mix of new attractions and staple events like the rodeo and demolition derby, the Arkansas State Fair remains a highlight of the year for locals and visitors alike.

Six Bridges Book Festival: Literary Gatherings

For literary enthusiasts, the Six Bridges Book Festival stands as a beacon of literary culture in Little Rock. Named after the six bridges that span the Arkansas River, this festival celebrates the power of the written word by bringing together authors, poets, journalists, and readers in a series of events that explore various literary genres and topics.

The festival typically takes place in October, featuring author readings, panel discussions, book signings, and workshops. It provides a unique opportunity for attendees to engage directly with the minds behind their favorite books and explore new literary voices. The festival also includes special programs for young readers, aiming to inspire and foster a love of reading among all age groups. Beyond the page, these gatherings encourage a lively exchange of ideas and foster a sense of community among book lovers in Little Rock and beyond.